Ex Libris™, part of Clarivate™, is excited to introduce Specto, an AI-powered digital collection platform designed to open new doors to libraries’ digital assets. Built on Alma and the Library Open Platform, Specto connects all stages of digital collection management — from metadata creation and cataloging to exhibition and preservation — enabling librarians and archivists to share the stories behind their collections like never before.
Special collections are often the gem of a library and deserve to be easily accessible to library patrons. However, managing these assets involves intricate workflows, from cataloging to long-term preservation. This complexity can leave libraries struggling to make their collections as discoverable and engaging as they deserve to be.
In response to these challenges, we outlined a vision for the future of digital collections powered by burgeoning technological advancement including AI metadata creation capabilities, immersive discovery tools and digital preservation.
What is Specto and how does it work?
Specto is more than a digital asset management tool; it’s a comprehensive platform that transforms how libraries manage their digital collections.
- AI-driven metadata creation
The AI Metadata Assistant automatically generates detailed, high-quality metadata at scale, using advanced technologies like Named Entity Recognition (NER) and Optical Character Recognition (OCR). Library staff can review and approve the metadata. This not only speeds up cataloging but also ensures consistency, accuracy, and seamless connections through Linked Open Data.
- Immersive discovery tools
Specto empowers end-users to engage deeply with collections through tools like the Online Exhibition and delivery pages. These features transform digital collections into dynamic, interactive experiences, guiding users through curated pathways and broadening their access to invaluable resources.
- Digital preservation for future access
Specto’s preservation capabilities, which will soon integrate with Rosetta Plus, safeguard digital collections for future generations. By addressing challenges like obsolescence and accessibility, Specto ensures that digital culture remains secure and accessible over time.
Benefits for libraries
Specto’s innovative features deliver critical advantages to libraries:
Integrated workflows: Built on Alma, Specto enables librarians to manage digital collections alongside physical and electronic resources within their regular workflows, simplifying processes and supporting all collection types in a unified system.
Enhanced discovery: Specto broadens the reach of special collections beyond traditional users and enriches the discovery experience with its search engine optimization (SEO) capabilities, full-text search, and immersive user interfaces like the Online Exhibition.
Cost and time efficiency: By leveraging AI-driven metadata creation and bulk editing tools, Specto significantly reduces the manual effort required for cataloging and managing collections. This not only saves time but also optimizes library resources, enabling staff to focus on higher-value tasks such as curating and sharing collections.
Future-proofing collections: Digital preservation capabilities enables the longevity and accessibility of vital cultural and academic materials.
For libraries looking to modernize their digital asset management and engage with their audiences more effectively, Specto offers a compelling solution that bridges the gap between technology and storytelling.
Ex Libris is launching a development partnership program as it prepares to roll out Specto by the start of 2026. To learn more about Specto and get involved in its development, visit here.
